I can’t believe how fast the first quarter has gone. It seems like just yesterday we were wrapping up 2016 and setting our intentions for 2017. As a Board we have had an action packed 2017 already with three board members terming out, three new ones coming in, our Annual Membership meeting on March 12, a Board training weekend and preparing for Rev. Carolyne’s sabbatical.

It is an exciting time to be a part of Unity of Tustin as it feels Spirit is birthing a new sense of aliveness available to us all. As I was reflecting on our Annual Meeting, I immediately began to tear up. From the moment I walked into the sanctuary I could feel the prayers of the Prayer Chaplains who had been in sanctuary before the meeting began. I was overtaken by a room overflowing with Spirt. It wasn’t that long into Darrell’s video that I began feeling so blessed that I too am a part of this incredible community. If you missed the video this year, it is available on our website in the videos section.

At our Annual Meeting we had an opportunity to honor our three outgoing board members; Jim Tyner, Tim Truitt and Christy White. I had the privilege of serving with them for nearly 18 months and in that time, I quickly realized the prominent level of skill, integrity and love of community that each one of them embody. Their presence on the board will truly be missed.
And, I am enthused by the new members who have been appointed and elected to our Board. Please join me in welcoming Pam Pence, Richard Long & Gretchen Hinojosa.

As a part of Debbie delaCuesta’s President report she shared what our Board will be focusing on in 2017, namely:
1. Board Training
2. Clarifying our mission, vision and values
3. 2nd Tier Training
4. Strengthening the feedback loop between leadership and community
5. Providing leadership during Rev. Carolyne’s sabbatical

Since our Annual Meeting, we have had one Board meeting followed up with a weekend training. In that short amount of time it already feels like we have been doing this for years.
During our retreat we focused on 2nd tier training and how to be an effective board. It was a sacred weekend filled with prayer, meditation, and a time of deep connection. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve our community with this dynamic group of spirit-led individuals.

I truly feel that as Rev. Carolyne and the sabbatical team are making their final preparations for Rev. Carolyne’s spiritual renewal that this is our opportunity as congregants to step into our mission-centric vision. It feels like a natural step and that we don’t need to do anything…just be.

Please note that our next Heartbeat of the Community gathering will be in June or July (date to be announced). We look forward to connecting with you in this more informal setting.

Your new Board and I are honored to serve you and look forward to a Spirit-centered year.